Aunt Mary'S Irish Bread
A hearty Irish bread with a slightly sweet flavor from raisins and sugar, boasting a tender crumb and perfect for breakfast or tea time with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the oven while preparing the ingredients.
- Mix the flour, salt, and baking powder with a spoon.
- Blend the butter into the flour mixture.
- Dissolve the baking soda in hot tap water and add to the buttermilk or milk with vinegar.
- Pour the milk mixture into the flour and blend until just combined.
- Fold in raisins if desired.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk, as it enhances the bread's moisture. If you don’t have raisins, try using chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a different twist. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier blending. Don't overmix the batter; it should be just combined for a light texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Irish bread pairs beautifully with butter and a dollop of jam, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch. Serve alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy experience. For a heartier meal, enjoy it with a bowl of Irish stew or a side of Mushroom With Sour Cream.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week. To reheat, slice and toast in a pan or oven until warm, which revives its crustiness and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Irish Bread contains roughly 694 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1683mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this bread without raisins?
Absolutely! You can omit the raisins entirely or substitute them with other dried fruits, such as chopped dried apricots or even nuts for added texture. This bread is versatile and can be tailored to your taste.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly, then use it in the recipe.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Additionally, the bread should be golden brown on top and have a firm texture. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).